“Nothing goes according to plan sometimes” - Hot Stone Group replaces The Gurkhas with WagyuNSushi

The group, which also owns Japanese fine dining restaurants Hot Stone in Islington and Kibako in Fitzrovia, confirmed on social media​​ that The Gurkhas had closed, describing it as being ‘really difficult to accept’.

Named after Nepal soldiers who have fought for Britain since 1815, The Gurkhas opened back in April​​.

The kitchen was led by chef Joe Allen and served a menu of modern Nepalese dishes including mutton sekuwa with onion and coriander; char-grilled monkfish choila; and pork chop with sisnu (nettle).

While no official reason was given for the closure, the social media statement makes a blanket reference to the myriad of challenges currently facing the industry.

“It has been extremely difficult for us to accept that The Gurkhas had to close,” the statement reads.

“Nothing goes according to plan sometimes, and despite best efforts, it is increasingly becoming more challenging and difficult for us and also for the whole industry.

“While The Gurkhas had to close, unfortunately, we are determined to work harder and come back in the near future.

“We have learnt a lot despite many obstacles, and we have also enjoyed and had a lot of valuable good moments, which we will always be grateful for.”

The new concept, WagyuNSushi, had its first service yesterday and, as the name suggests, specialises in wagyu beef and Japanese sushi, bringing it closer in line with the Hot Stone and Kibako brands.

It is unclear whether Allen continues to be involved in the restaurant.